SRAM Force CX1

SRAM Launches CX1 Drivetrain

A simpler, lighter cyclocross-specific 1x11 drivetrain

ron koch

(Photo by SRAM Force CX1 cyclocross drivetrain (Courtesy))

SRAM has finally unveiled the cyclocross-specific Force CX1 1x11 drivetrain that spying eyes have seen under some of its sponsored racers. Bart Wellens and Jeremy Powers have raced on it for two full seasons and the group scored two silver medals at the US 'cross nationals under Ryan Trebon and Elle Anderson. Compared with a Force 2x11 drivetrain, this dedicated 1x setup saves 205 grams.

But weight savings is just half of the CX1’s benefit. The other is superior chain management. Force CX1 takes many cues from SRAM’s mountain bike XX1 and X01 drivetrains. Its chainring teeth alternate narrow- and wide-tooth profiles, a design dubbed X-SYNC, which matches the inner dimensions of the chain to help keep it locked in place. The rear derailleur also has a one-way clutch that stabilizes chain tension to greatly reduce chain slap and excess movement. But because of the special chainring tooth profiles and clutch, CX1 cannot be used with a double chainring.

The rear derailleur may look almost identical to its existing 1X11 mountain bike units, but there are a couple of key differences. Beyond the added barrel adjuster, SRAM wisely chose to give CX1’s rear derailleur the same 1:1 actuation ratio as its other road groups. This gives it compatibly with existing shifters, including older 10-speed setups.

Unlike SRAM’s 1x mountain groups, which rely on a special XD driver body to accommodate the small 10-tooth cog, Force CX1 utilizes a standard driver body and SRAM’s existing 11-speed PG-1170 cassettes in 11-26, 28, or 32 tooth cog spreads. The chainrings are available in 38-, 40-, 42-, 44-, and 46-tooth counts and have a 110 BCD bolt pattern.

Force CX1 will eventually include a hydraulic brake option. Look for it in shops as soon as July 1.